Sharpologist has discussed pre-shave oils in the past, surveying some of the best products and offering information like the difference between pre-shave oils and pre-shave creams. But what about making a pre-shave oil recipe to your specific needs? Here are some DIY pre-shave oils you can make.
DIY Pre-Shave Oils
I’ve done some research on pre-shave oil ingredients–the new “AI” apps like ChatGPT, Afforai, and Katteb make this much easier than it used to be–and I have been able to come up with some “targeted” recipes.
To create a homemade pre-shave oil, I take inspiration from natural ingredients known for their skin-nourishing and conditioning properties, especially essential oils. Here is a simple recipe base you can try at home:
A Basic Recipe
Caution: Remember to do a patch test before using any new skincare product to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties and can help soften the skin.
- 1 Tablespoon Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils of the skin and can help balance oil production.
- 1 Tablespoon Sweet Almond Oil: Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins and can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
- 5 Drops Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender oil has calming and antibacterial properties, making it great for sensitive skin.
- 3 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent razor burn and irritation.
Mixing Instructions
- In a clean glass bottle, mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil, and 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil. These carrier oils will form the base of your pre-shave oil.
- Add 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil for a soothing fragrance and skin benefits. Add 3-5 drops of tea tree essential oil for its antimicrobial properties.
- Close the bottle and shake well to ensure all the oils are thoroughly mixed.
- Store the pre-shave oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve the quality of the oils.
Usage
Before shaving, wash your hands and face (or where ever you’re going to shave) with warm water to cleanse and prepare the skin.
Shake the bottle of pre-shave oil to re-mix the contents, open it, and apply a few drops of the pre-shave oil to damp skin and massage gently. Allow the oil to absorb for a minutes or so before shaving.
Shave as usual, rinsing the razor frequently in warm water.
After shaving, rinse your face with cool water. Follow up with a soothing aftershave balm or moisturizer.
Pre-Shave Oil Recipes For Specific Concerns
Different essential oils can be beneficial for various skin types and conditions due to their unique properties. Here are some examples of essential oils commonly used for different skin types or conditions. Remember to properly dilute essential oils into the carrier oils.
Dry Skin
- Lavender Oil: Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, lavender oil can help hydrate and calm dry skin.
- Chamomile Oil: Chamomile oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and nourish dry, irritated skin.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
- Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help control oil production and reduce acne breakouts.
- Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: This oil is commonly used for acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hyperpigmented Skin
- Lemon Oil: Lemon oil is known for its brightening properties and can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation on the skin.
- Bergamot Oil: Bergamot oil has skin-brightening properties and can help even out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Sensitive Skin
- Chamomile Oil: Chamomile oil is gentle and soothing, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Calendula Oil: Calendula oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm and protect sensitive skin.
Aging/Photodamaged Skin
- Rosehip Oil: Rosehip oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Frankincense Oil: Frankincense oil has rejuvenating properties that can help promote skin regeneration and reduce the signs of aging.
Precautions
When using essential oils for skincare (especially tea tree oil), it’s essential to dilute them properly with a carrier oil and perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions. Additionally, if you have specific skin concerns or conditions it’s recommended to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before incorporating essential oils into your skincare routine.
Previous Recipes
Over the years Sharpologist has also listed a number of DIY pre-shave oil recipes from readers, too:
Rich’s oil:
- 1. Castor Oil – 2 oz.
- 2. Grape Seed Oil – 1 oz.
- 3. Olive Oil – 1 oz.
- 4. Avocado Oil – 1 oz.
- 5. Apricot Oil – 1 oz.
- 6. Vitamin E Oil – 1 oz.
- 7. Lanolin – 1⁄2 – oz.
- 8. Glycerin – 1⁄2 – oz.
- 9. Almond Oil – 1 oz.
- 10.Tea Tree Oil – 10 drops.
It makes an 8 ounce batch.
Joe’s oil,
as ratios:
- 3/5 of castor oil,
- 1/5 of oil from grape seeds
- 1/5 of olive oil
- about 10 drops of mint and lavender oils.
Mike’s oil
Equal amounts of:
- oil from almonds
- avocado oil
- olive oil
- coconut oil
plus:
- about 20-25 drops of tea tree oil
- a spoonful of glycerin
- 20 drops of peppermint oil.
Donald’s oil:
- 3 oz oil from almonds,
- 1 oz castor oil,
- a tsp or two of your favorite essential oils for scent as desired.
- Maybe add a dash of glycerin for extra glide if you want.
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